Will my hearing loss continue to worsen?

Finding out you have a hearing loss for the first time inevitably creates a whole lot of questions for you. How bad is it? Can I just leave it? Do I really need to have hearing aids fitted? And the most important question, will my hearing loss continue to worsen?

Will a hearing loss continue to worsen?

Hearing loss is progressive, so the answer in short, is yes, most likely your hearing loss will continue to worsen. Luckily though, if you decide to treat your hearing loss with hearing aids, this will slow that decline. There are, of course, things you can do to help yourself when it comes to worsening hearing loss. The first, we have already discussed. The earlier that you address a hearing loss and begin to use hearing aids, the better for your hearing. Unfortunately, statistics tell us that often it is anywhere between 7 and 10 years before people do address a hearing loss. If you notice your hearing appears to be less than what it was, maybe you are turning the TV volume up higher and higher, you should seriously consider booking yourself in for a hearing consultation.

Protect your hearing from loud noise!

Another way you can help to protect your hearing is by avoiding exposure to very loud noise. This is particularly important if you work in a noisy environment such as a factory or construction site. Hearing protection should always be worn in such circumstances.

Signs your hearing is continuing to worsen

There are lots of signs that your hearing could be worsening and it’s very important to pay attention to them. If you are a hearing aid user already and notice any of these things, you should book an appointment with your hearing care professional. They will be able to re-test your hearing and ensure your hearing aids are programmed to your specific hearing loss. Usually, you will have 6 monthly check ups. If you do not wear hearing devices and notice any of the following signs, you should book yourself in for a hearing test.

1. You find yourself continually turning up the volume of the TV or radio. It may be that when people visit you, they comment on how loud you have been listening.
2. When people are talking to you, you feel like they are always mumbling or you are often asking them to repeat themselves.
3. You struggle to follow a group conversation, especially when in a noisy environment.
4. It seems as though people are talking too fast for you to follow.
5. People tell you that are talking very loudly.
6. You are experiencing tinnitus – a ringing, buzzing or whooshing noise in your ears. This is a sound that only you can hear.  

If you think it is time to do something about your hearing, please give us a call. The earlier you act, the better for your hearing. If you would like any further advice, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.